Staying Safe at Every Age

Yellow sticky note with the words 'Safety First!' pinned to a corkboard, emphasizing awareness and prevention during National Safety Month.

Homewatch CareGivers of Boise's mission is to help your loved ones live comfortably and confidently. Safety is a daily priority! Here are smart and practical safety strategies that can make everyday life more secure, whether at home or on the go.

Be Alert to Fall Hazards

Falls remain one of the most common threats for older adults. Simple issues like poor lighting, slippery floors, loose rugs, or cluttered walkways can lead to serious injury. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries and hip fractures in those over 65.

How to reduce risk

  • Clear pathways and remove loose rugs
     
  • Keep lights bright and consistent, especially at night
     
  • Add grab bars in bathrooms and railings on stairs
     
  • Arrange furniture to allow easy navigation

Keep Medications Organized

Managing multiple prescriptions can be confusing and potentially harmful. Around 20% of adults aged 40 + in the U.S. take five or more medications.

Medication safety tips

  • Use pill organizers or automatic dispensers
     
  • Keep a clear schedule (e.g. morning, afternoon, night doses)
     
  • Ensure adequate lighting for reading labels and measuring doses
     
  • Store medications in one cool, dry, secure place
     
  • Follow doctors’ instructions exactly. Don’t stop early or skip

Protect Against Seasonal Hazards

While our region doesn’t experience extreme seasonal swings, heat, humidity, and winter chills still pose risks.

For warm days

  • Drink plenty of water—avoid alcohol or caffeine
     
  • Stay in cool, shaded spaces; limit strenuous outdoor activities
     
  • Wear lightweight clothes, hats, and sunscreen

For cooler weather

  • Keep indoor temperatures comfortably warm to avoid hypothermia
     
  • If snow or ice is present, avoid shoveling tasks—these can strain the heart or cause slips

Reduce Kitchen and Home Office Risks

Our homes and kitchens are full of hidden dangers that often go overlooked.

Common hazards include

  • Dim lighting or countertop clutter
     
  • Hard‑to‑reach items that encourage over‑stretching or climbing
     
  • Cooking distractions or memory lapses. Timers and induction stovetops help prevent over‑heating
     
  • Expired food and dirty dishes that can lead to foodborne illness

Simple fixes

  • Organize frequently used items at counter level
     
  • Switch cords to back burners, use timers or smart alerts
     
  • Clean regularly, label by expiration dates, and disinfect prep areas

Plan for Journeys and Errands

When going to appointments or running errands it’s important to plan ahead to make sure you are ready and arrive safely.

Support options

  • Caregivers can help with preparation like bathing, dressing, packing medications, and making sure mobility aids are ready.
     
  • Use senior-friendly transport services with drivers trained to assist with wheelchairs or extra care.
     
  • For grocery or pharmacy needs, caregivers can shop or assist with order delivery.

Bring It All Together

Safety requires awareness, planning, and simple proactive steps. Whether it’s clearing clutter, managing medications, preparing for heat or cold, or planning safe outings, each effort adds up to greater peace of mind and independence.

At Homewatch CareGivers of Idaho, our professional teams in Boise, Twin Falls, Nampa, and Pocatello are ready to provide in‑home care designed with safety at its core. From medication reminders to light housekeeping and transportation support, we’re here to help your loved one thrive securely every day.

Contact us today to explore how personalized care can boost safety and well‑being in the comfort of home.

Homewatch Websites:

Boise: www.homewatchcaregivers.com/boise
Twin Falls: www.homewatchcaregivers.com/twinfalls
Nampa: www.homewatchcaregovers.com/nampa
Pocatello: www.homewatchcaregivers.com/pocatello

We serve the following cities:

Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Star, Nampa, Caldwell, Kuna, Mountain Home, Middleton, Parma, Homedale, Twin Falls, Jerome, Buhl, Kimberly, Filer, Wendell, Gooding, Pocatello, Burley, Chubbuck, American Falls, and Blackfoot.

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